The Federal Government has warned Nigerians against confronting, harassing, or attempting to undermine the operations of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, issued the warning on Wednesday during the inauguration of eight newly acquired gun trucks at the NSCDC Headquarters in Abuja.
Alake said individuals or groups seeking to frustrate the efforts of the Mining Marshals in combating illegal mining activities would be regarded as economic saboteurs and treated accordingly.
According to the minister, some personnel of the Mining Marshals have faced resistance from individuals and institutions believed to be benefiting from illegal mining operations.
“Anyone, whether a uniformed personnel or not, who seeks to frustrate the noble work of these Mining Marshals is an economic saboteur and will be treated as such,” Alake said.
He warned that those involved in sponsoring, aiding, or operating illegal mining sites would face arrest and prosecution.
The minister described the inauguration of the gun trucks as part of broader plans to strengthen the operations of the Mining Marshals. He added that provisions had been made in the ministry’s budget for the acquisition of modern technological equipment, including armoured vests and vehicles.
“We shall continue at the administrative level to ensure all necessary support is provided to enhance your operations,” he said.
Alake commended the achievements of the Mining Marshals, noting that their activities had sent a strong message to illegal mining operators across the country.
He revealed that in the last two years, the unit had arrested more than 300 illegal miners, prosecuted over 100 suspects, and secured several convictions.
According to him, the crackdown on illegal mining has helped improve investor confidence and increase revenue prospects for the nation’s solid minerals sector.
The minister also disclosed that efforts had been made to ensure that personnel of the special unit uphold professionalism and integrity in carrying out their duties.
Speaking at the event, Commander of the Mining Marshals, John Onoja, expressed appreciation to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the NSCDC leadership for supporting the unit.
Onoja said the newly acquired gun trucks would significantly enhance the operational capacity of the Mining Marshals in tackling illegal mining activities nationwide.
He assured that the vehicles would be effectively deployed to strengthen enforcement efforts across the country.
The event also featured the unveiling of a book titled “The Guardians of Nigeria’s Solid Minerals: Two Years of Commitment and Service.”
Source: News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)
Edited by:Deborah Yakub, www.primepost
